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Entry Level Welding Engineer Jobs in Washington, DC

Entry Level Welding Engineer information

See Washington, DC salary details

$27

$46

$64

How much do entry level welding engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level welding engineer in Washington, DC is $46.95, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38.80 and $53.41 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an entry level welding engineer do?

An entry level welding engineer assists in designing, developing, and implementing welding processes within manufacturing or construction projects. They often work under the supervision of senior engineers to help select appropriate welding techniques and materials, conduct quality inspections, and troubleshoot welding problems on-site. Their responsibilities may also include preparing technical reports, ensuring safety standards are met, and supporting continuous improvement initiatives in welding operations. This role is ideal for recent graduates in welding engineering or related fields seeking hands-on experience.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level welding engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Welding Engineer, you need a solid background in welding processes, metallurgy, and engineering fundamentals, typically supported by a bachelor's degree in welding engineering or a related field. Familiarity with CAD software, welding simulation tools, and relevant industry certifications such as AWS Certified Welding Engineer is often required. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills help you excel in team environments and technical discussions. These skills and qualifications are essential for ensuring weld quality, process efficiency, and adherence to safety and industry standards.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level welding engineers, and how can they overcome them?

Entry level welding engineers often encounter challenges such as adapting to a fast-paced manufacturing environment, learning to interpret complex blueprints, and understanding various welding codes and standards. To overcome these challenges, new engineers should actively seek mentorship from experienced colleagues, participate in on-the-job training, and stay updated with industry certifications. Building strong communication skills is also crucial, as welding engineers frequently collaborate with production teams, quality inspectors, and design engineers to ensure weld integrity and safety.

What is the difference between Entry Level Welding Engineer vs Entry Level Welding Technician?

AspectEntry Level Welding EngineerEntry Level Welding Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in welding engineering, materials science, or related fieldAssociate degree or technical certification in welding technology
Work EnvironmentDesign, testing, and development in engineering settingsHands-on welding, inspection, and equipment operation
Employer & Industry UsageManufacturers, aerospace, automotive, construction firmsManufacturing plants, fabrication shops, quality control labs

Entry Level Welding Engineers focus on designing and improving welding processes, requiring engineering degrees. In contrast, Entry Level Welding Technicians perform hands-on tasks like welding, inspection, and equipment setup, often with technical certifications. Both roles are essential in manufacturing industries but differ in responsibilities and educational requirements.

What are the most commonly searched types of Welding Engineer jobs in Washington, DC?

The most popular types of Welding Engineer jobs in Washington, DC are:

Shop Equipment Maintenance Technician

Legence

Beltsville, MD • On-site

$20 - $35/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 7 days ago


Job description

The Bowers Group - A Legence Company
Established in 1984, The Bowers Group is a trusted provider of mechanical construction, service, and repair solutions across Maryland, Virginia, and Washington, D.C. With over three decades of experience, we serve a wide range of clients-from general contractors and technology-driven organizations to healthcare facilities, government agencies, and property managers. We deliver projects through a disciplined, collaborative approach focused on quality, cost control, and reliability. Our process includes rigorous equipment selection, detailed reviews, and proactive subcontractor management-helping us anticipate risks, avoid delays, and ensure safe, compliant, and efficient results. Our success is built on a people-first culture of teamwork, accountability, and respect. By investing in our employees and fostering open communication, we create an environment that supports long-term relationships-with both our team and our clients.
Position Overview
Bowers is seeking an Entry-Level Shop Equipment Maintenance Technician to support the upkeep and reliability of our fabrication equipment. This position is ideal for someone with mechanical aptitude who is eager to learn and grow in a fast-paced sheet metal and piping fabrication environment. Training will be provided.
Key Responsibilities
  • Assist with maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair of fabrication equipment, including:
    • Press brakes
    • Shears
    • Laser, plasma, or waterjet cutting machines
    • Roll formers and coil-fed equipment
    • Welding and forming equipment
    • Pipe cutters and saws
    • Pie benders and rollers
    • Pipe Threading and grooving machines
    • Fit up and alignment tools
    • Welding equipment used for pipe fabrication
  • Perform preventive maintenance tasks such as lubrication, inspections, and cleaning
  • Identify and report mechanical, electrical, hydraulic, or pneumatic issues
  • Assist with tooling changes and basic machine setup support
  • Follow maintenance schedules and document completed work
  • Work closely with operators, supervisors, and senior maintenance technicians
  • Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area

Desired Skills and Experience
  • Education & Credentials
    • High school diploma or GED required
    • Technical or trade school coursework preferred
  • Experience
    • 0-2 years of experience in manufacturing, fabrication, or equipment maintenance
    • Technical & Professional Skills
    • Sheet metal or piping fabrication shop experience is a plus but not required
    • Mechanical aptitude and basic hand-tool knowledge
    • Basic understanding of industrial equipment and machinery
    • Willingness to learn electrical, hydraulic, and pneumatic systems
    • Ability to read basic drawings, manuals, and maintenance instructions
    • Dependable, punctual, and safety-focused
    • Exposure to CNC-controlled fabrication equipment preferred
    • Basic pipe welding or pipe fitting exposure preferred
    • Forklift or overhead crane familiarity preferred
    • Experience using maintenance logs or CMMS systems preferred
  • Safety Requirements
    • Ability to follow Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) and shop safety procedures
    • Willingness to wear required PPE (safety glasses, gloves, hearing protection)
    • Comfortable working around heavy machinery and sharp metal materials
  • Physical Requirements
    • Ability to stand and walk for extended periods
    • Ability to lift up to 50 lbs
    • Comfortable working in a fabrication shop environment with noise, dust, oils, and varying temperatures

Additional Information
  • This position is based on Beltsville, MD.
  • No sponsorship is available for this position.
  • Hourly rate: $20.00 to $35.00 per hour

About Legence
Legence (Nasdaq: LGN) is a leading provider of engineering, consulting, installation, and maintenance services for mission-critical systems in buildings. The company specializes in designing, fabricating, and installing complex HVAC, process piping, and other mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) systems-enhancing energy efficiency, reliability, and sustainability in new and existing facilities. Legence also delivers long-term performance through strategic upgrades and holistic solutions. Serving some of the world's most technically demanding sectors, Legence counts over 60% of the Nasdaq-100 Index among its clients.
Benefits Overview
Health & Welfare: Company Paid medical, dental, vision, prescription drug, accident & sickness benefit, basic group life and AD&D
Time Off Benefits: Comprehensive Paid Time Off (PTO) program.
Financial Benefits: 401(k) retirement savings plan
Reasonable Accommodations
If you need assistance or accommodations during the application or interview process, please contact us at ta@wearelegence.com or your dedicated recruiter with the job title and requisition number.
Employment Eligibility
Candidates must have current work authorization in the U.S.; visa sponsorship is not available for this position.
Third-Party Recruiting Disclaimer
Legence and its affiliates do not accept unsolicited resumes from agencies; any such submissions without a prior signed agreement authorized by Legence Holdings LLC's CHRO or Director of Talent Acquisition will not incur fees and are considered property of Legence.
Pay Disclosure & Considerations
Where pay ranges are indicated, please note that a successful candidate's exact pay will be determined based relevant job-related factors, including any of the following: candidate's experience, skills, and qualifications, as well as geographic and market considerations. We are committed to ensuring fair and competitive compensation for all employees and comply with all applicable salary transparency laws.
Equal Employment Opportunity Employer
Legence and its affiliate companies are proud to be an equal opportunity workplace. We are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), marital or familial status, national origin, age, disability, genetic information (including family medical history), political affiliation, military service, other non-merit-based factors, and any other characteristic protected under applicable local, state or federal laws and regulations.
EEO is the Law